Ferry Operator Assistant

State of Washington•Lincoln County – Other, WA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is seeking a skilled and motivated Ferry Operator Assistant to support the operation and maintenance of the Keller Ferry located on the Columbia River 14 miles north of Wilbur, Washington on State Route 21. The successful incumbent will be responsible for loading, unloading, and securing the passenger vehicle ferry to provide safe crossing service to the public. The "M.V. Sanpoil" ferry can carry up to 20 cars and 149 passengers, providing a safe crossing service to the public. The ferry operates 18 hours a day, 365 days a year. The position requires a safety-minded individual to provide customer service to the public, as well as assist with ferry operations.

Requirements

Demonstrated ability to communicate both verbally or in written form with customers and team members alike in a professional setting.
Ability to maintain accurate logs and records accordingly and contribute to a work environment that fosters a culture of respect and equal opportunity.
Demonstrated ability to follow established safety procedures, participate in safety training, prioritize safety and proper response procedures, and ability to identify and report safety concerns in a timely manner.
Ability to multitask operational needs while maintaining a balanced and secure vessel for safe transport.
Demonstrated ability to safely secure and prepare the vessel for operation, perform docking and line handling procedures, adjust loading ramps, and support safe and efficient passenger and vehicle transport.
Demonstrated ability to inspect, maintain perform major and minor repairs and maintenance on ferry, ramps, buildings, facilities, grounds, and related equipment.
Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
Takes action to meet the needs of others.
A TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) card or ability to obtain within 6 months of appointment
First Aid Card required within 6 months of appointment
A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
Ability to respond to assigned duty station within 1 hour of an after-hours callout.
Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain and work elevated heights, above 25 feet over land or water.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated knowledge and ability to support ferry, marine, or commercial vessel operations in a public transportation or maritime environment.
Ability to follow established operating procedures, safety requirements, and regulatory standards while working effectively as part of a vessel operations team.
Demonstrated ability to provide professional, courteous, and responsive customer service while interacting with passengers, coworkers, and members of the public in a fast-paced operational environment.
Ability to communicate effectively, remain calm and professional in challenging situations, and respond appropriately to customer needs and concerns.
Possession of a TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) card
Possession of a First Aid Card
Possession of a valid U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) license for master inland stream or motor vessels of not more than 100 gross tons valid on Lake Roosevelt between Grand Coulee Dam and the Canadian Border or documented 360 sea days of experience and the ability obtain the USCG 100-ton operator’s license.

Responsibilities

Assist Ferry Operator in operation of Ferry.
Participate in crew safety and training meetings to ensure safe work practices and compliance with policy and regulations.
Secure the vessel upon docking, casting off lines upon embarking safely, and lowering of apron section of vessel slip to the level to permit embarking and debarkation of vehicles and passengers; adjust the loading ramp system as necessary to accommodate various vehicle types and weights.
Direct traffic to the proper lanes embarking/debarkation from the vessel using precise and understandable visual and verbal signals.
Ensure that vehicles are parked to properly balance the vessel and block the wheels of vehicles parked on the vessel.
Keep watch on passenger safety.
Assist in lubricating and servicing engines, running gear, and winches.
Assist in periodic inspections of engine room.
Utilize fire extinguisher and lifesaving procedures and assist accordingly in the case of such emergency.
Clear debris from the roadway and the shore adjacent to the landings.
Assist in vessel fueling operations.
Have knowledge and understanding of United States Coast Guard rules and regulations pertaining to the operation of the vessel and the duties of the Ferry Operator Assistant.
Assists in checking engines and keeping logs on trips, repairs, and damages.
Perform major and minor repairs and maintenance to ferry, ramps, buildings, and equipment associated with ferry operation.